2. Description
a. Origin
The artichoke ( Cynara scolymus ) is native to the Mediterranean basin, more precisely to southern Italy, Greece and the Maghreb. It is a cultivated variety of the wild thistle, a plant that already existed in ancient times. The Greeks and Romans used it not only as food but also for its medicinal properties, especially to treat digestive and biliary disorders. The artichoke was introduced to Europe in the Middle Ages and, over the centuries, became a plant cultivated and consumed throughout the Mediterranean region. It was then exported to other parts of the world, where it is widely cultivated today.
b. History
The history of artichoke as a dietary supplement dates back to ancient times, when it was already used by the Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties, especially for digestion and liver health. In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, artichoke was consumed mainly as a food, but its health benefits, especially for digestive disorders, were also recognized.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, with the rise of herbal medicine, the properties of artichoke leaves were further studied, particularly for their beneficial effects on liver and digestive function. Cynarin, an active compound, was identified as being responsible for these effects.
In the 20th century, artichoke was incorporated into modern dietary supplements, in the form of concentrated extracts, capsules and herbal teas, to treat digestive disorders, enhance detoxification and support liver health. Today, artichoke is a popular ingredient in dietary supplements and detox products, recognized for its benefits on digestion and the liver.
3. Indications:
- Improves digestion : Artichoke stimulates the production of bile, which helps digest fats and improve digestion in general. It is often used to treat indigestion (dyspepsia), bloating, and stomach heaviness.
- Support for liver function : It is traditionally used to support liver health, promote its detoxification and help it eliminate toxins. Artichoke is also considered a hepatoprotector, meaning it helps protect the liver from damage caused by toxic substances, such as alcohol or medications.
- Detoxifying effect : Thanks to its action on bile, the artichoke promotes the elimination of toxins through the liver and intestines, contributing to the detoxification of the body.
- Cholesterol Reduction : Some studies suggest that artichoke may help reduce blood cholesterol levels, particularly by increasing fat excretion.
- Improvement of digestive and biliary functions : It is recommended for people with biliary problems or disorders related to insufficient bile production, such as gallstones or fat digestion disorders.
- Support for gastrointestinal disorders : Artichoke can be used to soothe certain gastrointestinal disorders, such as abdominal cramps, bloating or nausea, especially after meals.
- Antioxidant effect : Artichoke contains antioxidants (such as flavonoids and phenolic acids), which help neutralize free radicals in the body and protect cells against oxidative stress.
4. Dosage: how to use it correctly?
-Herbal tea 1.5 g in infusion 4 times a day
-Powder: 600 to 1500 mg per day
-Dry extract: 600-1320 mg per day
-Dry extract of fresh leaves: 900-2400 mg per day [1]
5. Clinical evidence
-Cholagogue and choleretic [2]
-Hepatoprotective and anti-free radicals, hepatic regeneration [3] and hepatoprotective against paracetamol [4]
-Hypocholesterolemic ( cynarin , luteolin , cynaroside ) [5] , [6] , [7] , [8]
-Hypoglycemic, reduces postprandial hyperglycemia [9] , and appetite [10]
-Xanthine oxidase inhibitor, potential in hyperuricemia and gout [11]
-Antioxidant and protector of the vascular endothelium [12]
- Dyspeptic disorders [13]
6. Interactions
a. with food supplements
- Digestive herbs : Artichoke stimulates the production of bile and helps digest fats. When taken with other digestive herbs such as peppermint, fennel, ginger, or dandelion, the combined effect can improve digestion, but sometimes in an overly stimulating way, which could lead to bloating or abdominal pain.
- Digestive enzymes : Since artichoke is already beneficial for digestion, taking it with digestive enzyme supplements (such as bromelain or papain) could be helpful for some people, but it could also overload the digestive system and cause discomfort if the doses are too high.
- Detoxification supplements : Artichoke is sometimes taken in detoxification programs, thanks to its effects on the bile and liver. When combined with other detoxification supplements such as milk thistle, dandelion, or activated charcoal products, it can help to eliminate toxins from the body. However, detoxification that is too aggressive could lead to side effects such as headaches or fatigue, especially if you combine several detoxification products.
- Diabetes supplements (hypoglycemic supplements) : Although artichoke has hypoglycemic (blood sugar lowering) properties, if you combine it with hypoglycemic supplements (such as chromium, ginseng, or cinnamon), it may potentiate the effect on lowering blood sugar levels. If you are already taking diabetes medications or supplements, it is essential to monitor your blood sugar regularly, as a combination could lead to hypoglycemia (excessive drop in blood sugar).
- Diuretic supplements : Artichoke also has moderate diuretic effects, promoting the elimination of fluids. If you take other diuretic supplements (such as dandelion, bladderwrack, or green tea), this could intensify this effect, with a risk of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance (such as a drop in potassium). It is important to stay well hydrated and to consult a healthcare professional before combining several diuretics.
b. with medication
-Artichoke may have a mild hypoglycemic effect, meaning it can lower blood sugar levels. If you are taking medications for diabetes, such as insulin, glibenclamide, or metformin medications, adding artichoke supplements could increase the hypoglycemic effect and lead to hypoglycemia (excessive drop in blood sugar).
- If you are taking blood thinning medication, it is best to consult a doctor before starting an artichoke supplement, to avoid any risk related to blood clotting.
- Artichoke stimulates the production of bile, which helps in the digestion of fats and supports biliary function. If you are taking choleretic medications (which promote the secretion of bile) or medications for biliary disorders, the combined effect of artichoke with these treatments could increase the production of bile excessively, which can lead to digestive side effects (such as abdominal pain or diarrhea).
- Artichoke can complement the effect of statins, but it is important to monitor for potential side effects, such as muscle pain or elevated liver enzymes.
- Artichoke also has mild diuretic effects, promoting the elimination of water through the kidneys. If you are taking diuretic medications (such as hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide or herbal diuretics), this could have a cumulative effect, increasing the elimination of fluids and electrolytes, which can lead to imbalances, such as potassium disorders or dehydration.
7. Contraindications
Allergies to plants of the Asteraceae family, biliary obstructions, serious kidney problems, pregnancy and breastfeeding (except on medical advice), children, severe hypoglycemia, serious digestive problems.
8. Precautions for use
If you are taking medications for diabetes, blood thinners, or medications for gallbladder disorders, consult a health care professional before using artichoke supplements.
It is always advisable to consult a doctor before starting any dietary supplement, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking other medications.
9. The Pharmacist's opinion
Artichoke supplements offer many health benefits. They are particularly appreciated for their ability to improve digestion, by stimulating the production of bile, which facilitates the breakdown of fats and helps reduce symptoms of digestive heaviness and bloating. In addition, artichoke is recognized for its hepatoprotective effects, supporting liver function by promoting the elimination of toxins and stimulating liver cell regeneration. This support can be valuable in cases of liver overwork related to dietary habits or drug treatments. In addition, artichoke has shown promising effects in reducing cholesterol, thanks to its properties that help lower levels of LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol), thus contributing to cardiovascular health.
In addition to these benefits, artichoke is a natural source of fiber and antioxidants, making it an ally for preventing chronic diseases and supporting the digestive system. However, as mentioned, it is essential to remain vigilant and consult a healthcare professional before starting an artichoke supplement, especially in cases of biliary disorders, liver disease, diabetes or taking specific medications. Medical monitoring ensures optimal and safe use of the benefits of artichoke as part of a supplement.
